Tsum Valley Trek - 21 Days

The Tsum Valley, often aliased as the "hidden valley", is situated in northern part of Nepal’s Gorkha district. Tsum is derived from the Tibetan word "Tsombo", which means “clear”. Boisterously poised against the captivating mountainous backdrop of the Ganesh Himal, Sringi Himal, and Boudha Himal, this tranquil Himalayan valley is abundantly blessed with rich cultures, religions and ancient arts/crafts. It is also recognized as a Himalayan pilgrimage site. The Tsum valley still adheres to the preaching of the great Buddhist figure, Chyuchin Milarepa and relates the mindboggling legends about the circumambulation of another Buddhist spiritual leader, Guru Padmasambhava (also known as “Guru Rinpoche”). Animal slaughtering in the name of Gods is akin to a taboo here. Dwelt by the people of Tibetan origin, the valley still emanates the instances of polyandry.

The Tsum Valley Trek involves sauntering along the trails dotted with artistic Chortens and Mani walls, made of stone slabs, carved with drawings of deities and inscribed prayer lines. We commence the trip with a lengthy drive from Kathmandu to the bustling little town of “Arughat Bazaar in Gorkha district. It’s from here that our footy mission (trek) actually kicks off. The trail heads up the valley of the Budi Gandaki River through wild and unexplored countryside, inhabited mainly by the people of the “Gurung” ethnic group. In the days ahead, we continue walking along the pleasant routes, relishing the views of marvelous chortens and imposing mani walls, simultaneously relaxing overnight in some of the most fascinating riverside camps (Soti Khola & Machcha Khola). Entering Tsum, we get to behold the very clandestine cave, Phiren Phu, which hauls an interesting legend of being a meditating spot of one of the most famed Buddhist figures, “Burji Milerapa”. Our trek also covers the visit to the Dephyudonma Gompa, one of the oldest monasteries in the region and also the famed nunnery of Rachen Gompa. If you get the feel of being fatigued with the long walks, the hot-spring at Tatopani will certainly flex your aching muscles. With all the contentment, the trek finally winds up at Aughat Bazaar, where it had begun.

Important Snippets

The itinerary prescribed above is the standard template of the trip plan offered by Marron Treks which can be readily customized to match the guests’ preferences. However, the guests are expected to understand that the execution of the trip plan might be circumvented by an array of uncontrollable factors like bad weather, political turmoil, strikes, blockades and other unforeseen contingencies. Under such abnormal circumstances, the trip plans might undergo slight or sharp alterations, taking into consideration, the best interest of the clients. Wherever the changes are made, Marron Treks cannot be held responsible for the consequences. Nevertheless, we shall endeavor our level best to make sure that the trip is carried out with respect to the original trip specifics.

Day 01: Arrival in Kathmandu (1400m)

Upon your arrival at the Tribhuwan International Airport in Kathmandu, a representative from Marron Treks will receive and transfer you to your hotel. After you are greeted with welcome drinks at the hotel, we will have a quick pre-trip meeting to discuss on the necessary formalities and trekking itinerary. You can then check in to your room, freshen up and rest. Or if you are not one of those “lay back” types, you can take a stroll around the vicinity of your hotel and get the feel of this hyperactive capital city of Nepal. On the streets, people seem to be on sheer rush, barely noticing one another, but if you utter “Namaste”, they will definitely reciprocate with a smile! Well, that’s Nepal’s Nepalese for you. Overnight at hotel in Kathmandu; breakfast included.

Day 02: Kathmandu city sightseeing (1400m)

Short stroll in the evening yesterday might not have acquainted you to Kathmandu. So we want to make sure that you know this city like you know yourself. Once done with your breakfast, let’s hop in to our reserved vehicle and then head on for a comfy ride with one of our experienced city guides. You will be visiting the most renowned historical/cultural landmarks in Kathmandu. Our guide will take you to the Pasupatinath Temple (the most revered Hindu shrine), Swayambunath (the monkey temple) and Kathmandu (Basantapur) Durbar Square. All these sites are enlisted in the UNESCO world’s heritage list. After this informative and interesting tour, we drive back through the busy and noisy streets of Kathmandu to the serene premises of your hotel. The best use of the remaining time can be made by shopping the trekking goodies. Most of the items are available on rent and our guide will help you identify the best renting outlet. So, after you have hoarded all the handy gears for your trek, get back to the hotel. Overnight at hotel in Kathmandu; breakfast included.

Day 03: Drive from Kathmandu to Arughat Bazaar (608m/8-9 hours)

After a succulent breakfast at the hotel we are all set to hop in for a long drive out of the valley. On this 8-9 hours' drive to Arughat Bazaar you will be accompanied by your guide. Arughat Bazaar is a bustling town with an array of hotels and shops. We will spend the night here in one of the good hotels. Overnight at camp in Arughat Bazaar; breakfast, lunch and dinner included.

Day 04: Trek from Arughat Bazaar to Soti Khola (700m/6-7 hours)

Our trek commences from today. Soti Khola (River) is not much higher in terms of elevation, hence our trek today would be a fairly flat walk through the Magar settlements, verdant fields and some beautiful waterfalls.Shringri Himal, greets us with its immortal beauty all the way until we arrive at our fascinating camp site in the vicinity of Soti Khola (River). Overnight at camp in Soti Khola; breakfast, lunch and dinner included.

Day 05: Trek from Soti Khola to Machha Khola (930m/6-7 hours)

Our today's venture could be fairly challenging at times. Following the constricted and slightly steep trail which stretches past some interesting settlements and beautiful forest, we eventually make our way to the serene milieu of Machha Khola (River). Machha literally means "Fish" in Nepal. Overnight at camp in Machha Khola; breakfast, lunch and dinner included.

Day 06: Trek from Machha Khola to Doban (1070m/6-7 hours)

Let's begin the day walking along the set of switchbacks. To reach Doban, we climb a well crafted stone staircase over a ridge. Doban is poised right at the confluence of two rivers, "Shiar Khola" which flows from the east and "Sarpu Khola" from the west. Overnight at camp in Doban; breakfast, lunch and dinner included.

Day 07: Trek from Doban to Philim (1590m/6 hours)

The day's trek kicks off with a climb along a rugged rocky trail. The trail then goes up and down the ravines and notched trees. Being warmly greeted by the "Shringri Himal" we continue all the way to Philim, a prominent looking settlement featured by corn and millet fields and dwelt mainly by the people of Gurung community. There are several good camp site here. Our camp site happens to be the one hemmed by alder, blue pine and poplar trees. Overnight at camp in Philim; breakfast, lunch and dinner included.

Day 08: Trek from Philim to Lower Tsum (2835m/7 hours)

Kissing goodbye to Philim, we make our way up over a ridge that leads us towards the base camp of "Ganesh Himal" and then subsequently to the Lower Tsum, also known as "Chumling". Overnight at camp in Lower Tsum; breakfast, lunch and dinner included.

Day 09: Trek from Lower Tsum to Upper Tsum (3030m//5-6 hours)

We kick off the day's trek crossing the suspension bridge and then traversing through the rich farming lands of maize and potatoes. We can witness plenty of classic Tibetan style houses along the way. Trailing ahead, we pass by an isolated inn of Rainjham (2400m). Finally, crossing the "Sarpu Khola (River)" on a suspension bridge we make an ascent on a well trodden trail to the prominent village of Upper Tsum (Chhokanparo). The village is characterized by a chain of stone houses nestled under the cliffs; there are massive stretches of fields of barley, maize, buckwheat and potatoes. We might just get bewildered to witness the instances of polyandry still evident here. Overnight at camp in Upper Tsum; breakfast, lunch and dinner included.

Day 10: Trek from Upper Tsum to Nile/Chhule(3360m/6 - 7hours)

Since we are gradually gaining altitude we should be on our toes regarding the altitude sickness. Moving ahead from the beautiful surrounding of Upper Tsum, we head east through the small villages, walk past a local school and then climb over a ridge of chortens towards the settlement of Lamagaun (3202m). From here we can capture a wonderful view of Rachen Gompa (3240m), which actually happens to be a nunnery. The trail now takes us up towards the famed cave known as "Phiren Phu" which carries an interesting legend of being a meditating spot of one of the renowned Buddhist figure "Milarepa". After a short exploration of this cave we then proceed crossing the "Shiar Khola (River)" and pass by the hamlets of Phurbe and Pangdung before we make an entrance through an impressive gate (Kani) and eventually arrive at of Nile/Chhule. Overnight at camp in Nile Chhule; breakfast, lunch and dinner included.

We make an early start up following the west bank of the river, simultaneously enjoying the sunrise on the narrow walls of the valley, and the site of the grazing yaks. The ascent to the very imposing Mu Gompa constitutes trudging up through the dry Tibetan countyside dotted with chortens, at the backdrop of beautiful mountains. This large Gompa houses about 100 monks and a collection of religious books, statue of "Avalokiteshware" and images of Guru Padmasambhava (Ringpoche) as well as "Tara". The exploration is not yet over. From here we head further west on a well trodden track which leads us to another oldest monastery in the region, Dhephyudonma Gompa. This monastery signifies the dawn of Buddhism and its currently run by Lama Serap who belongs to Kangin sect. After this indulging experience, we hike back to Mu Gompa. Overnight at camp in Mu Gompa; breakfast, lunch and dinner included.

Day 12: Rest and excursion day at Mu Gompa
A well deserved recess after the continuous walking for about 10 days! We can start off a bit late today. After breakfast, we head on for a short hike to the base of Pika Himal (4865m). Once at the base, we can enjoy an absolutely fabulous view of Tibetan peaks as well as the Ganesh Himal range. After this interesting quick excursion, we get back to our camp site in Mu Gompa. Overnight at camp in Mu Gompa; breakfast, lunch and dinner included.

Day 13: Trek from Mu Gompa to Rachen Gompa (3240m/5 hours)

In order to get to Rachen Gompa we retrace our steps back towards Nile/Chhule and then continue past Phurbe, following the east bank of "Shiar Khola (River)". We cross the flat boulder covered plains and then finally arrive at yet another very ancient monastery, Rachen Gompa. This happens to be a nunnery and it is almost akin to a norm to have one member from each family in the Tsum valley as a nun or a monk. There are few camping sites available here. Overnight at camp in Rachen Gompa; breakfast, lunch and dinner included.

Day 14: Trek from Rachen Gompa to Dumje (2440m/6-7 hours)

From Rachen Gompa we follow the downhill route towards the Upper Tsum which takes us about 3 hours. We arrive at a small Gompa in a place called "Gho". From here the trail descends to the left of the village and then further drops to a wooden bridge over "Shiar Khola". To get to Dumje, we cross another bridge. Dunje is a small village with a Tibetan herbal medicine clinic and school. Overnight at camp in Dumje; breakfast, lunch and dinner included.

Day 15: Trek from Dumje to Philim (1590m/6-7 hours)

From Dumje we head further downwards and pass by the settlement of Ripchet. On the way we can witness one of the most magnificent waterfalls known as Samba Tingdin Chhupyang. By and by we finally arrive at the very familiar settlement of Philim. Overnight at camp in Philim; breakfast, lunch and dinner included.

16: Trek from Philim to Tatopani (990m/6-7 hours)

Continuing our way back, we cross Nepal's longest suspension bridge. We keep following the left bank, pass by the settlement of Salleri and then descend a rocky ridge. Walking along the river bed, we arrive at a small Gurung village of Jagat. From Jagat our trail leads us past another small settlement, Yaru. We now cross a bridge over the Yaru river and arrive at Shyaule Bhatti. From here we descend to Doban and then cross a suspension bridge over the Buri Gandaki River. Finally, trailing down a ridge, we arrive at Tatopani. This is a great opportunity for us to try out the hot springs here and flex our aching muscles. Overnight at camp in Tatopani; breakfast, lunch and dinner included.

Day 17: Trek from Tatopani to Soti Khola (700m/6-7 hours)

We are now at the penultimate day of our trek. So in course of wrapping up the trek we walk alongside the terraced fields and splendid tropical waterfalls until we arrive at Soti Khola. Overnight at camp in Soti Khola; breakfast, lunch and dinner included.

Day 18: Trek from Soti Khola to Arughat Bazaar (608m/6-7 hours)

Retracing back our steps of Day 03 we conclude our trek arriving at Arughat Bazaar, from where things had started off for us. To mark this successful accomplishment of our trek, we can have a small celebration with our crew members. Let's thank them for being suppportive, cordial and adorable. Overnight at camp in Arughat Bazaar; breakfast, lunch and dinner included.

Day 19: Drive from Arughat Bazaar to Kathmandu (1400m/8-9 hours)

Once again we hop in to our private car and head on for a long drive back to the hullaballo of Kathmandu. Upon arrival, you will be received by a representative from Marron Treks and then transferred to your hotel. You have just gotten back from a long trip, so you would probably want to groom yourself and relax. Try out the herbal spa and do away the trekking fatigue. You have an extra day at Kathmandu tomorrow. Overnight at hotel in Kathmandu; breakfast included.

Day 20: A free day in Kathmandu
This is a free day in Kathmandu to fulfill anything that you missed out spotting in this energetic capital of Nepal. You can indulge yourself in shopping or strolling around some of the cultural and historical landmarks of Kathmandu. Thamel is your hot spot for shopping where you can haul all the souvenirs representing Nepal and its culture. May be that in addition to your interesting trip anecdotes, you would also want to take back some stuff for your friends and relatives. In the evening, a farewell dinner with a range of traditional Nepali cuisines, will be hosted by Marron Treks. Enjoy the dinner, pack/prepare yourself for a flight back home and have a beauty sleep. Overnight at hotel in Kathmandu; breakfast and dinner included.

Day 21: Final departure

Our representative will take you to the airport for your flight back to home. or you can extend your days and could enjoy our other exciting packages like Bungy Jumping, Mountain Biking, Jungle Safari, White Water Rafting, Golfing & Paragliding etc. A representative from Marron Treks will escort you to the airport for the final departure to your homeland. It is advisable to reach the airport, 3 hrs prior to the flight schedule.Have a safe flight back home. Please let us know about your desire for trip extension so that we can make the necessary arrangements.

Important Snippets

The itinerary prescribed above is the standard template of the trip plan offered by Marron Treks which can be readily customized to match the guests’ preferences. However, the guests are expected to understand that the execution of the trip plan might be circumvented by an array of uncontrollable factors like bad weather, political turmoil, strikes, blockades and other unforeseen contingencies. Under such abnormal circumstances, the trip plans might undergo slight or sharp alterations, taking into consideration, the best interest of the clients. Wherever the changes are made, Marron Treks cannot be held responsible for the consequences. Nevertheless, we shall endeavor our level best to make sure that the trip is carried out with respect to the original trip specifics.

Along the trekking route, there are many Tea House/ Lodgesto stay. They provide good services. We will ensure you get the best of the services available so that you enjoy every bit of your trek.

Meals

We arrange the best quality food during the trek as we are concerned about the health of the trekkers as well as the staff members. Basically, we opt for locally available food in the Annapurna Region so that you could a real sense of the culture, living patterns, simultaneously promoting the locally available resources of organic food and beverages. Other than, a wide range of Continental, Chinese, Italian and Indian cuisines like Pizza, Spaghetti, French Fries, Soups, Breads etc are also available for your retreat.

Porter and Staff Care

We ensure that all the porters and other staffs going to high altitude conditions are provided with adequate clothing and equipments. They are the backbones of a trek.

Best Months

January - May and September - December are considered to be the best for this trek.

Any Experience Required ?

No former experience required. Physical fitness is the only key to accomplish this trek.

Difficulties

Although this is a trek of medium to hard grade, a person of any age group, who is physically fit, can opt of it.

Our Guides

Guides play a very active role during the trek. Marron Treks has experienced and helpful treking guides who make your trip enjoyable as well as productive. Our guides are literate, multilingual speakers, environment conscious and well acquainted to culture, language, location and every single detail pertaining to the Annapurna Region. This would help our trekkers make the most of their trip.

Travel Insurance

It is advised that you arrange your travel insurance before leaving your homeland. The main thing is to make sure that your insurance covers you for both medical and evacuation costs. In some places it is not necessary but it would be better if you have the travel insurance with you all the time. That would make your trip safe and hassle free.

Camp accommodation on "full board" basis throughout the trek as per the itinerary. . Four seasonal sleeping bag (to be returned after trip completion) duffel bag, t-shirt and Cap (provided as complimentary gears).

Nepal entry visa fee – Visa can be obtained upon your arrival at the Tribhuwan International Airport in Kathmandu. (Tourist Visa with Multiple Entries for 15 days costs US $ 25 or equivalent foreign currency, Tourist Visa with Multiple Entries for 30 days and 90 days costs US $40 and $ 100 respectively. You will need a valid passport and 2 copies of your recent PP sized photos).

Tips to the guide, porter, driver, hotel and tea-house staffs (Tipping is expected).

Cost incurred due to the addition of extra days or change in the real course of the itinerary because of bad weather conditions, political turmoil or any other unforeseen contingencies.

Garbage deposit fees (refundable).

Any other expenses not mentioned in the 'Cost Includes' section above.

TREKKING GEARS & EQUIPMENTS

Needless to say that kitting and stuffing yourself out for a trek is almost a herculean task which keeps you mulling and often gets you overwhelmed. But at the mercy of the renting outlets sprouting in every visible corner in Kathmandu, preparing for trekking in Nepal these days is almost tantamount to equipping yourself for a weekend backpacking trip. Most of the heavy and expensive items are easily available on rent, so you don’t actually have to travel Nepal with a cartload of gears. We have endeavored to formulate a categorical checklist that gives you a tentative idea regarding the gears and accessories mandatory for you during the trek. The list could vary depending upon the kind of trek you pursue, the terrain, weather conditions and time of the year. For instance, you don’t need the camp-trek equipments when you are on a tea-house trek. This listing below simply serves as a guideline and you can always have your own checklist. It is always preferable to pack light and the key to this is to carry the gears and accessories that have multidimensional uses.

CLOTHING (Core & Lower body)

Water-proof (breathable fabric) jacket, Poncho or Umbrella

Hard shell pants (breathable fabric- 1 set), preferably that zips from top and bottom which can be worn over boots without getting undressed, in case of abrupt weather changes

Duffle bag (will be provided by Marron Treks as a complimentary gear and you needn't return it )

Pack cover (to protect your gears from getting wet)

Day sack/Nylon stuff sack

Sleeping Bag/ Silk liner (will be provided by Marron Treks but should be returned after the trip)

Water bottle

Good head torch along with spare batteries and bulbs

Maps, compass and a guide book

Trekking poles

Miscellaneous Bits

The items below could seem trivial, but if you don’t have them, you might just find

yourself sticky and stinky, which isn’t actually good for you!

Toiletries

Quick-drying camp towel

Detergent powder/bar

Toilet paper

Sunscreen Lotion (SPF 20+) & Lip balm

Pocket knife

Sewing/Repair Kit (for tent & mattress)

Emergency kit including a whistle, waterproof match/lighter

Padlocks for bags and lodge rooms

Stuff sacks

Earplugs

Candlesticks

Medicaments

It is important that you can include the medicines prescribed by your doctor. Below is just the generic list of medications. We advice you to always consult your travel doctor as you might be resistant or allergic to some medicines

Anesthetics (Ibuprofen/Aspirin)

Broad spectrum antibiotics tablets

Metronidazole and Antacids (for diarrohea /indigestion)

Broad spectrum ointments (Neosporin/ Clotrimazole/Gentamicin)

Antiseptic liquids (Dettol/Savlon)

Assorted band-aids

Small gauge pad

Roll of adhesive tape

Iodine tablets

Optional Carry

Nothing hard and fast about carrying the items in this list as they are not the basics. Yet, though not all, if you still manage to squeeze in some of these items on your carry, you will not regret as they might just come handy during the trek

Camera, memory card and battery charger

GPS unit Altimeters

Binoculars

Pee bottle for men (leak proof/wide mouth) & Pee funnel for women

Books and magazines

Departure Date

Marron Treks has calibrated fixed departure dates for all the trek packages. We operate group as well as individual/private treks. Please pick the most palpable date for you and book your trip now. If the dates below don’t fit your schedule, kindly contact us directly and let us know about your preference.

Trip Facts

Starting Price: USD XXXX (On request)

Group Size: 02 – 12 Pax

Trip Grade: Moderate

Accommodation: Hotel/Camping

Transportation: Private Car/Jeep

Highest Elevation: Pika Himal Base Camp (4865m)

Lowest Elevation: Arughat Bazaar (608m)

Average Walking Hours per Day: 6 Hours

Trek Commences From: Arughat Bazaar (608m)

Trek Terminates At: Arughat Bazaar (608m)

Best Months: Jan-May & Sep-Dec

Trip Highlights

Interesting and informative tour around Kathmandu valley with an experienced city guide, visiting the most renowned historical and cultural landmarks herein

Enticing experience of riverside camping in the beautiful vicinity of Machha Khola (river)

Enjoy the splendid mountainous vista of Mt. Ganesh (7429m) from Upper Tsum and also witness the rare instances of polyandry still prevalent herein

Explore the Mu Gompa and Dephyudonma Gompa, the oldest and the largest monasteries of Annapurna region, respectively

Capture the glimpse of the largest nunnery at Rachen Gompa

Cast away all your fatigue at the hot spring in Tatopani

Visit Piren Phu (pigeon cave), one of the most sacred caves in the Tsum valley

A full- fledged Nepali style farewell dinner program, featuring a range of traditional Nepali cuisines and an entertaining cultural show